Smoove & Turrell - Mount Pleasant LP

Smoove & Turrell - Mount Pleasant (2018)

Smoove & Turrell’s Mount Pleasant is a soulful and energetic album that continues the duo's tradition of blending classic soul, funk, and contemporary pop with a distinctly Northern edge. Released in 2018, this album marks the fifth studio effort from the UK-based group, known for their ability to craft catchy, socially conscious songs that resonate with a wide audience. With Mount Pleasant, Smoove & Turrell deliver a collection of tracks that are both danceable and thought-provoking, highlighting their growth as musicians and songwriters.

The album kicks off with "There for Me," a track that immediately grabs attention with its upbeat groove, infectious bassline, and Turrell’s powerful, gritty vocals. The song sets the tone for the album, combining sharp production with a soulful, vintage vibe that feels fresh and modern. It’s the kind of track that sticks in your head long after it’s over, showcasing the duo’s knack for crafting memorable hooks.

"You're Gone," featuring Izo FitzRoy, adds a touch of melancholy to the mix, with its reflective lyrics and smooth, laid-back rhythm. The combination of FitzRoy’s soulful voice with Turrell’s gives the track an emotional depth, creating a poignant contrast to the more upbeat moments on the album. The lush instrumentation, with its rich layers of horns and strings, adds to the track’s timeless feel, making it one of the standout moments on Mount Pleasant.

Throughout the album, Smoove & Turrell explore a variety of themes, from personal introspection to social commentary. Tracks like "Billie" and "Hate Seeking Missile" delve into issues of identity and division, wrapped in grooves that are both funky and urgent. The band’s ability to address serious topics without sacrificing their signature sound is one of the album’s strengths, allowing them to engage listeners on multiple levels.

"Flames to Feed" is another highlight, with its driving rhythm and anthemic chorus. The track’s blend of soul and rock elements creates a sense of urgency and intensity, while the lyrics speak to the struggles and resilience of everyday life. It’s a track that captures the essence of what Smoove & Turrell do best—combining raw emotion with a groove that makes you want to move.

The album closes with "Save Me," a soulful ballad that brings the energy down while maintaining the emotional intensity. Turrell’s vocal performance is particularly strong here, conveying a sense of longing and hope that resonates deeply. The track’s sparse arrangement allows the lyrics and vocals to take center stage, providing a powerful and fitting conclusion to the album.

Mount Pleasant is a solid and engaging album that showcases Smoove & Turrell’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. It’s an album that offers something for both long-time fans and new listeners, blending classic influences with contemporary sounds to create a record that feels both familiar and fresh. While it doesn’t radically reinvent their sound, Mount Pleasant reinforces the duo’s position as one of the leading voices in modern soul and funk.

For fans of soulful, groove-driven music with a message, Mount Pleasant is well worth a listen. It’s an album that invites you to dance, think, and feel, capturing the highs and lows of life with a sound that is unmistakably Smoove & Turrell. Whether you’re a dedicated follower or just discovering their music, this album is a testament to their enduring appeal and their ability to craft songs that resonate on multiple levels.